Brussels, 09/11/2012 (Agence Europe) - On Friday 9 November, the European Commission announced that a further €63 million would be allocated for supporting Kosovo's efforts to implement its EU-reform agenda. The funds will be used for reforms of the justice and public administration systems, to support the readmission and reintegration of refugees and to improve correctional and probation services. European funding will also be used to boost private sector development through the modernisation of Kosovo's power supply, its infrastructure and investment in education and regional development. The funding included in the 2012 annual programme for Kosovo under the EU's Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance (IPA) will be topped up with an additional €20 million of co-financing by Kosovo authorities and other donors.
“The Commission will continue to consult closely with the Kosovo authorities and other donors to ensure the efficiency and effectiveness of EU assistance in Kosovo”, the Commission states in a press release, while a report from the European Court of Auditors criticised the lack of effectiveness of European aid to Pristina when it comes to rule of law (see EUROPE 10721). (CG/transl.jl)